Detachment

Substitute teacher Henry Barthes begins his one-month assignment at a struggling high school. He assesses his students' writing skills through an essay prompt about legacy, revealing a hostile environment within the classroom.

During his first day, Henry witnesses a confrontation between a student's mother and a teacher over the expulsion of her son. This encounter highlights the aggressive atmosphere at the school and the challenges that teachers face.

After school, Henry visits his grandfather in a care facility where he is suffering from dementia. He becomes frustrated with the care his grandfather receives, expressing his concerns to the staff about their treatment of him.

On his way home, Henry witnesses Erica, a young sex worker, being assaulted by a man. Despite her attempts to solicit his help, he declines, marking a moment of reflection on the pressures and dangers faced by vulnerable individuals.

The following day, Henry reads his students' essays aloud, leading to a significant moment when he realizes Meredith is struggling with suicidal thoughts. This discovery deepens his understanding of the emotional turbulence his students are experiencing.

After another visit to his grandfather, Henry invites Erica to his apartment, where he cares for her injuries and offers her temporary shelter. This act of kindness showcases Henry's desire to connect and provide support amidst his own challenges.

At school, the staff gathers for a memorial service for a deceased teacher, despite mixed feelings about his impact. This event draws attention to the struggles within the educational system and the emotional burdens borne by the faculty.

A speaker addresses the faculty about declining test scores and their impact on real-estate prices, igniting outrage among exhausted teachers. This discussion foreshadows the impending firing of Principal Carol Dearden, creating tension among staff.

Dr. Parker attempts to help student Missy, who exhibits disengagement with her academics. As Missy expresses her own frustrations, the meeting highlights the broader issues of disillusionment faced by students in a failing educational system.

Henry is called to the care facility because his grandfather's health has declined sharply. During their emotional conversation, Henry reassures him that he is not to blame for Henry's struggles, providing a moment of clarity in their relationship.

Henry opens up to Erica about his mother's suicide and a disturbing implication of abuse in his family history. This shared vulnerability deepens their bond and illustrates the weight of past traumas that both characters carry.

Meredith approaches Henry with an artwork she created for him, trying to connect amidst her pain. When she becomes visibly upset, Henry attempts to comfort her, but their interaction is interrupted, leading to confusion and distress.

The day after their conversation, Meredith laces her cupcakes with poison during a school sale. After consuming one, she sadly takes her own life, prompting a devastating impact on Henry and the school community.

In the wake of Meredith's tragedy, Henry realizes he can no longer take care of Erica. He calls social services to take her to a foster home, a decision that leaves both of them heartbroken as they part ways.

On his final day at the school, Henry chooses to read The Fall of the House of Usher to his class. This poignant choice reflects his understanding of themes such as death and legacy, resonating profoundly with the students.